Lane Davey Obituary; Pioneer of Women’s Surfing at Pipeline Passes Away After Battling Stage 4 Colon-ovarian Cancer

Lane Davey, Pioneering Pipeline Surfer, Passes Away at 55

Lane Davey, a trailblazer in women’s big-wave surfing and a beloved figure in the surf community, has passed away at the age of 55 after a courageous battle with stage 4 colon-ovarian cancer. Her death on April 26, 2025, was confirmed by her husband, renowned surf photographer Sean Davey, who shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram tribute.

A native of Tennessee, Lane moved to Hawaii in the 1990s, where she became a fixture at the North Shore’s Pipeline. Weighing just 115 pounds, she was known for fearlessly charging the reef breaks, often paddling out to second and third reef Pipe when few women dared to follow. Her presence in the lineup was both groundbreaking and inspiring, challenging the norms of the surf world.

Beyond her prowess in the water, Lane was a multifaceted individual. She was a former professional surfer, a professor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, and a Ph.D. graduate. Her dissertation, which drew parallels between breakdancing and surfing, showcased her deep commitment to understanding and documenting surf culture. Lane also made significant contributions to women’s surfwear, creating the first functional women’s boardshorts, and was an advocate for the recognition of women’s roles in surfing history.

In her final months, Lane spoke out about the lack of acknowledgment for her contributions to women’s surfing at Pipeline. She expressed a sense of being overlooked in recent surf histories, despite her pioneering efforts. Her advocacy highlighted the importance of recognizing the women who have shaped the sport.

The surf community has paid tribute to Lane, with figures like Kelly Slater, Moana Jones Wong, and Stephanie Gilmore sharing their condolences and memories of her impact on the sport.

Lane’s legacy lives on through her contributions to surfing, her academic work, and the inspiration she provided to countless individuals who witnessed her dedication and passion. She is survived by her husband, Sean, and their three beloved dogs, Paumalu, Tazzy, and Kai Boy.

A memorial service to celebrate Lane’s life and legacy is being planned. Details will be shared through her official website and social media channels.